Heraklion Region

Travel Guide to Heraklion Region

Heraklion region unfolds as a canvas rich with ancient Minoan history and contemporary Cretan life. Beyond its historical marvels like the Palace of Knossos and Phaistos, Heraklion is dotted with inviting beaches, perfect for a day under the sun.

The region is more than just its capital city; it’s a landscape of contrast with tranquil villages and dramatic gorges. From the buzz of city life to the charm of Cretan villages, Heraklion offers experiences for every traveller. Discover the best things to do in the Heraklion region, from sun-soaked beaches and stunning natural beauty to welcoming towns, comfortable hotels, and local eateries.

Towns and Villages in Heraklion Region

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Heraklion Town

Heraklion (Iraklion or Herakleion) is the largest city in Crete, as well as the capital of the region and economic centre of Crete island. The first European civilisation, known as the Minoan civilisation, flourished here over 5000 years ago. Currently, Heraklion has a population of approximately 177,064 people. Heraklion is a very cosmopolitan and dynamic […]

Hersonissos

Hersonissos (Limenas Chersonisou), renowned as a vibrant tourist hotspot in Crete, captivates visitors with its stunning beaches, remarkable landscapes, and a diverse range of facilities catering to all tastes and ages. Alongside its reputation as a lively gathering place for youthful crowds, much like Malia, Hersonissos also houses three quaint, traditional villages – Piskopiano, Koutouloufari, […]

Agia Pelagia Village

Agia Pelagia is a beautiful coastal town situated 20km west of Heraklion, known for its stunning bay that offers a perfect blend of sea sports and relaxation. The bay is ideal for water-skiing, wind surfing, and canoeing, and visitors can take advantage of the well-trained instructors who offer lessons. The town has a range of […]

Stalis (Stalida)

Stalis borrows its name from the Greek verb stalizo, signifying a place of rest. Historically, it served as a resting point for shepherds and their flocks. Positioned 30 kilometres to the east of Heraklion, Stalis, also known as Stalida, is nestled between Hersonissos and Malia, approximately 3 kilometres from each. Due to heavy tourism influx, […]

Malia Town

Malia is a popular tourist destination, especially among young people. It is located 35 kilometres east of Heraklion. The town is well-known for its beautiful beaches and lively party scene, especially in August. However, during the rest of the year, Malia transforms into a peaceful and calm retreat. The old village is a charming and […]

Kalamaki Heraklion

Geraki village

Geraki is a village located near Gerakiani Lagkada, at the foothills of Lasithi mountains, just 42 km away from Heraklion. The village is known for its agriculture and livestock practices, with its residents producing wine, raisins, cereals, and dairy products. Visitors can also explore the Byzantine church of Michael Archangellos in the village. Geraki’s cultural […]

Kamilari village

Kamilari is a charming and peaceful village that boasts stunning views of the vast olive groves in the Messara valley and the Libyan sea. This village has a fascinating history that dates back to the Minoan era and has been inhabited ever since. Additionally, the nearby community of Metohi was once home to Epimenidis, a […]

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Explore the best beaches in Heraklion Region

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Aspes (Mavri) beach

The stunning Aspes beach, with its dark sand, is nestled approximately 58km south of Heraklion, in one of the most remote and hard-to-reach areas of the Asteroussia Mountains. This beach lies 4km to the east of the Tris Ekklisies settlement. Aspes is known for its almost vertical cliffs surrounding it, adorned with spectacular caves that […]

Red beach

The Kokkini Ammos, or Red Beach, can be found 68km southwest of Heraklion and a short 800m from the popular resort of Matala. You can reach this hidden gem by following a clearly marked trail from Matala, which takes you over Kastri hill. While the trail includes some initial rock climbing and a steep descent […]

Hersonissos beaches

Hersonissos, a bustling tourist hotspot in Crete situated just 28km to the east of Heraklion, is renowned for its tranquil beaches and calm seas – a rarity along the northern coast of Crete due to the prevailing northern winds. The most serene beaches can be found to the west of the port, shielded by the […]

Matala beach

The beach of Matala is situated 68km southwest of Heraklion, where the Messara plain and Asteroussia Mountains intersect. It is one of the most frequented tourist spots in Crete and the most well-known beach in the southern region of the Heraklion prefecture. Matala is notable for its rock-carved caves and its association with the hippie […]

Agiofarago beach

Agiofarago Beach, is a picturesque beach situated about 80km south of Heraklion city. To get there, you can opt for a 25-50 minute scenic trek through the Agiofarago Gorge or a boat ride from Matala, Agia Galini, Kokkinos Pirgos, or Kali Limenes. If you decide to trek through the gorge, you’ll enjoy a beautiful journey […]

Stalida beach

Stalida Beach (or Stalis) is located 30km east of Heraklion, between Malia and Hersonissos. Originally a small seaside village formed by the inhabitants of Mochos, it has now evolved into a bustling tourist destination, harmoniously blending into the neighbouring town of Malia. Stalis caters primarily to families seeking a tranquil retreat, and is beautifully equipped with a range […]

Karteros beach

The Karteros Bay, situated at the exit of the synonymous Karteros Gorge, lies 7km east of Heraklion and stretches 3.5km to the east. It pays homage to the Byzantine General, Krateros, who in 824AC attempted to liberate Crete from the Saracens by landing his ships on the bay’s beach, but unfortunately, he was defeated. The […]

Potamos beach - Heraklion

The primary beach of Malia, situated in the heart of the town, is often teeming with visitors. As a result, those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle tend to head towards the sandy stretches to the east of Malia’s port, conveniently located near the Palace of Malia. The most easterly of these beaches […]

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Find the best accommodations in Heraklion Region

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13 Leontariti

Urban Apt Next University 20

8 of 10

29 Θεσσαλονίκης

Κέντρο Μικρή καλαίσθητη μεζονέτα

From
€54 /night
8.3 of 10

50 Καρτερού

Cathedral Suites - Adults Only

9.3 of 10

Πάροδος 2η Σγουρομαλλινης

Deluxe Suite near City Center

8.8 of 10

53 Δικαιοσύνης

Luxury Suite in Downtown

From
€219 /night
8.2 of 10

Samouil Chaouz 28

City Center Cozy Nido Apartment

From
€69 /night
8.4 of 10

28 Ελευθερίου Γκρέκο

Relax Home

8 of 10

5 Παρμενιωνος

Aurora Studio Apt for Couples & Friends

From
€49 /night
9 of 10

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Free Walking Tour in Heraklion

5.0 of 5 (6)

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€4

Traditional Olive Grove and Dragon Fruit Farm Tour

5.0 of 5 (2)

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€6

Heraklion Area: CRETAquarium Admission Ticket

4.3 of 5 (834)

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€8

Lychnostatis Open Air Museum: Entry Ticket with Add-Ons

4.8 of 5 (22)

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€8

Heraklion: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour

3.8 of 5 (392)

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€15

Crete: Heraklion Archaeological Museum Ticket & Audio Guide

4.3 of 5 (129)

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€15

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Explore Archaeological Sites in Heraklion Region

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Malia Minoan Palace

The archaeological site of Malia is situated 3km east of Malia town, adjacent to the wetland and Potamos beach. It was a significant Minoan city that housed the third largest Minoan palace, following Knossos and Phaistos. According to mythology, Sarpedon ruled here, who was the brother of Minos and son of Zeus and Europa. Sarpedon […]

Smari Citadel (Acropolis Smari)

Perched atop the rocky hill of Prophet Elijah (Profitis Ilias) near Smari, at an elevation of 590 meters, lie the remnants of a fortress surrounded by a robust defensive wall. This location offers sweeping views over the fertile plains of Kasteli and Smari. Archaeologist Hadji-Vallianou believes this fortress to be the site of ancient Lyttos […]

Agios Thomas Roman Tombs

Agios Thomas (Saint Thomas) is one of the most impressive mountain villages of Crete, mainly due to the easily carvable rocks in the region. The area boasts incredible monuments of carved architecture, transporting us to ancient times with Minoan presses, Roman tombs, and cavernous temples. These features, combined with the breathtaking cliffs, natural caves, Byzantine […]

Leben Archaeological Site (Ancient Levena)

Lendas is located where the ancient city of Levina once stood, 74km south of Heraklion, nestled amidst the breathtaking Asterousia Mountains. The name “Levina” is believed to stem from the Phoenician word “Lavi,” meaning “Lion.” This reference is evident in a nearby cape shaped like a lion’s head, considered one of the lions that once […]

Ancient Lyktos

Ancient Lyktos, also known as Littos, can be found near the settlement of Xidas. This city was one of the most powerful in ancient Crete, a perpetual rival of Knossos, and it controlled the port of Hersonissos. Many ancient historians have written about Lyktos, mentioning that it was the oldest city in Crete, well-organized and […]

Archaeological Site of Lasaia

Lassea was one of the ports of the Roman city Gortyn, the capital of Crete in the Roman Era, and is located at the site of the current settlement Chrysostomos. Lassea was rich in copper deposits, which were used for trading copper. Saint Paul mentions the town in his Acts for his stay on Crete. […]

Sanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite

The Sanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite can be found in a stunning location in the southern part of the Dikti mountain range, at an altitude of 1150m, near the Krya Vrysi spring, and about 5 km northeast of the village Kato Symi. The site spans 1.7 hectares, with only a portion having been excavated. To […]

Ancient Matala

Matala, originally known as Matelon, functioned as a port for Phaestus and Gortyn and is famous for its carved caves, which were used as graves during the Grecoroman era. The cape to the south of Matala has been identified as Cape Nysos, the site where Menelaus’ ships were wrecked, as mentioned in the Odyssey. Excavations […]

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